Looking for the perfect plants for a balcony that doesn’t get full sun all day? You’re in luck! Plenty of stunning varieties actually thrive in partial shade. Here’s a breakdown of some top picks to help you find the right match for your outdoor space.
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++Drumstick Primrose (Primula denticulata)
The Drumstick Primrose absolutely loves shady to partially shaded spots. Starting in March, this plant produces beautiful, globe-shaped flower clusters in vibrant colors. These blooms sit on sturdy stems about 6 to 12 inches high, making them pop against the low-growing foliage. Since this primrose is tolerant of lime, you can water it straight from the tap without a worry. To really help it take off, mix a little humus into your potting soil.
++Lobelia (Lobelia erinus)
Blue is one of the most sought-after colors in the garden, so it’s no surprise that Lobelia is a fan favorite for balconies. When it’s in bloom, it’s covered in intense, electric blue flowers. These plants are heavy feeders, so make sure to use a high-quality potting mix or fertilize them regularly. Lobelia does great in sun to partial shade, quickly filling up balcony boxes with lush green leaves and a sea of blue.
++Marigolds (Tagetes)
Marigolds bring those warm, sunny vibes to your balcony with colors ranging from bright yellow to deep orange. They are a fantastic way to add a splash of color all summer long. Because they’re sensitive to frost, most gardeners treat them as annuals. However, they are super easy to grow from seed each year, or you can just grab a few starters from the nursery. They look just as good in a single pot as they do in a mixed arrangement.
++Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia)
If you have a larger balcony with plenty of room in the partial shade, the Angel’s Trumpet is a showstopper. These plants feature massive, fragrant blooms shaped like—you guessed it—trumpets. While they are breathtaking, a quick heads-up: all parts of this plant are toxic. If you have little ones or pets running around the balcony unsupervised, you might want to opt for something a bit more kid-friendly.
++Petunias (Petunia)
For a massive explosion of color, you can’t go wrong with petunias. Their long blooming season and wide variety of colors make them a staple for balcony gardeners everywhere. While they definitely prefer a sunny spot, they can still hold their own in partial shade. Just keep in mind that they might produce slightly fewer flowers than they would if they were basking in full sun all day.
++Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)
Often called “Busy Lizzies,” Impatiens are the MVPs of the partially shaded balcony. These plants are absolute blooming machines, starting in May and going strong all the way through October. They love shade and partial shade, and as long as you keep them watered and give them some humus-rich soil, they’ll stay happy. Bonus: they don’t mind “hard” tap water, so feel free to use the hose!
++Hydrangeas (Hydrangea)
With their giant flower heads and lush green leaves, hydrangeas are a classic garden favorite that also work beautifully in large pots. If your balcony is partially shaded and protected from the wind, you’ve got the perfect spot for a hydrangea. Most varieties are actually quite sensitive to harsh, direct midday sun, so that afternoon shade is exactly what they need to keep from wilting.
++Bacopa (Sutera cordata)
Looking for a “pro tip” for your balcony? Try Bacopa (also known as the Snowflake Flower). During the summer, this plant is covered in tiny, delicate white blossoms that look just like fallen snowflakes. It’s a real eye-catcher that works well in both sun and partial shade. Just avoid putting it in deep, dark corners—it still needs a bit of light to put on its snowy show!